Homework help
Supporting learning beyond the classroom
At Farington Primary School, we believe that learning continues beyond the school day. Homework provides valuable opportunities for children to practise important skills, develop independence and share their learning with parents and carers.
Our approach to homework is designed to support and reinforce the learning taking place in school, rather than place unnecessary pressure on children or families. Activities are carefully considered to help children practise key knowledge and skills, develop positive learning habits and strengthen the connection between home and school.
Homework will vary according to children's age, year group and individual needs, but will generally focus on the following key areas:
Phonics and Spelling
For children who are developing their phonics knowledge, home activities will support the sounds and words being taught in school. As children progress, this will develop into regular spelling practice, helping children to learn and apply spelling patterns and key vocabulary.
Reading
Reading regularly is one of the most important ways families can support their child's education.
We encourage all children to read frequently at home, whether this is reading independently, sharing a book with an adult or listening to someone read. Talking about books, characters, vocabulary and what children have read is just as important as the act of reading itself.
We want children to develop not only strong reading skills, but also a genuine love of reading.
Mathematics Fluency
Children will have regular opportunities to practise key mathematical knowledge and skills at home. This may include number facts, mental calculation, arithmetic and times tables, helping children to develop accuracy, confidence and fluency.
Children may use Times Tables Rock Stars to practise their multiplication and division facts in an engaging and enjoyable way.
Learning from School
Homework may also provide opportunities for children to revisit and talk about the topics and themes they are learning about in school.
We encourage parents and carers to talk to their children about their learning, ask questions, discuss new vocabulary and encourage them to share what they have discovered. Simple conversations about school can be a powerful way of helping children to remember, understand and apply what they have learned.
Children may occasionally be given activities linked to their current curriculum topics, allowing them to explore an area of interest in greater depth or share their learning with their family.
Times Tables Rock Stars
Times Tables Rock Stars helps children practise and develop fluency in their multiplication and division facts through games and challenges.
Home - Times Tables Rock Stars
Purple Mash
Purple Mash provides access to a wide range of digital learning activities and resources across different areas of the curriculum. Teachers may set activities for children to complete at home, alongside opportunities for children to explore and practise their learning independently.
Proud providers of digital resources for schools - 2simple.com
How can parents and carers help?
You do not need to be a teacher to make a difference to your child's learning. Some of the most valuable support you can provide includes:
Encouraging your child to read regularly and talking about books together.
Practising phonics, spelling, number facts and times tables when appropriate.
Asking your child about what they have been learning in school.
Encouraging your child to explain their learning to you.
Helping children to develop a regular homework routine.
Providing encouragement while allowing children to develop independence.
Celebrating effort, progress and achievement.
Showing interest in your child's interests and encouraging their curiosity.
Making learning enjoyable and part of everyday family life.
Keeping homework positive
Homework should be a positive experience. We want children to develop independence and take responsibility for their learning while knowing that adults are there to encourage and support them.
Regular, short periods of purposeful practice are often more beneficial than long periods of homework.
If you have any questions about homework or would like advice about supporting your child's learning at home, please speak to your child's class teacher or contact the school.